The Fulfillment Formula: Cracking the Code to Workplace Happiness

I've consulted in many industries, but my favorite is manufacturing. When you talk with people on the frontline, building dishwashers and installing car interiors, you find very authentic individuals. No masks. They tell you how it is.

I wondered, is there fulfillment in drilling holes and stamping parts, supervising robots, and stitching leather seats? Yes! It depends on how you think about it.

Any mindless, repetitive job with little opportunity for variety or advancement can be miserable. The same goes for professional positions. The secret to motivation on the job - any job - is purpose.

Do you want to get a good sense of your company culture? Ask any employee: "Why is your job important?" I guarantee that the answers will be telling.

Every employee must be able to describe how their role helps someone else, ideally a customer.

For example, an accounts payable clerk can say that he or she ensures the janitorial team is compensated for cleaning the floors that customers use. A clean workplace makes customers feel welcome. A warehouse employee ensures inventory is delivered to the line on time so that products are built and delivered on time for customers who need them - to solve a problem, fill a need, and make their lives better.

That's fulfillment. Now check out the chart:

This is from a study conducted by Ricoh in 2024. The second item: "After a day's work, I feel like I've contributed something positive to the world" shows great results! What could be more motivating than a sense of contribution?

Psychology tells us that this is important for our well-being, and predisposes us to do our best at work. But they can't feel a sense of fulfillment unless they know how their work improves the lives of others.

Do you dare ask the same question of your employees?